In a memo for Tuesday's City Council work session, East Lansing Community and Economic Development Administrator Lori Mullins said the city's staff recommends Lansing-based DTN Management Co. to overhaul East Lansing's Park District.

Mullins said DTN is city staff's choice because: it has access to sufficient capital to complete the project; it has a reputable track record of development in the area; and its proposal integrated community preferences well.

DTN, which owns and operates multiple apartment communities in and around East Lansing, is one of two finalists for the project. Despite the city staff recommendation, the East Lansing City Council still has the final say between DTN and Lurvey White Ventures, of Flint, according to city spokesperson Mikell Frey.

DTN's proposal for the space calls for a 10-story hotel and residential building, as well as a 400-space parking garage. The plan would also expand Albert Avenue west across Abbot Road to Valley Court.

The 2.8-acre property south of Evergreen Road is made up of six buildings and two parking lots owned by the Downtown Development Authority. The area was formerly designated as part of the failed City Center II project.

Lurvey White Ventures' proposal includes a hotel, residential mixed-used and parking structures, as well as a farmer's market.

The East Lansing City Council meets Tuesday at 7 p.m. at City Hall to discuss the staff's recommendation. The council is scheduled to make its selection for the Park District redevelopment at its Aug. 6 meeting.